Biochemistry and nutrition expert, Leticia Carrera, encourages many of her clients to eat protein-rich meals in order to feel satiated, sleep better, improve recovery time and build lean muscle mass. In fact, one of her biggest pieces of advice is to eat protein- meals in the evening – you eat carbohydrates, healthy fats and other macronutrients during the day, then stick solely to protein come night. Not a method recommended by all experts, , a personal trainer and sports nutrition expert, suggests eating protein-rich (though not protein-only) dinners, instead.
Protein-only meals, she says, should be consumed twice a week, maximum. “Dining on protein alone may not be the best approach for long term health. While it is essential for satiation and preservation of muscle mass, a good, balanced diet also includes carbohydrates and healthy fats,” explains Lordén Álvarez, who insists on the importance of nutritional balance to ensure that the body gets all the nutrients it needs — proteins, fats and carbohydrates as well as the minerals and vitamins found in fruit and vegetables.
“Protein has a higher thermic effect — which means it also speeds up the — but a protein-only, low-carbohydrate diet can sometimes negatively affect our metabolism and energy levels.” It’s also key to ensure you’re eating lots of , such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Tips on eating a protein-rich diet Protein-only meals may make you feel full, but they are also nutritional.